If you’ve ever noticed yourself feeling irritable, upset, or even sluggish when you are hungry, it might help to know that there are actual physiological reasons behind that.
A new study by the University of Guelph has shown that lower glucose levels have a negative effect on mood. Researchers studied the effect of low glucose levels on rats who were administered a glucose metabolism blocker to induce hypoglycemia. Post experiencing hypoglycemia, the rats were found to have higher levels of corticosterone, a stress hormone, and exhibit increased sluggishness. Researchers also found that they were able to counteract the sluggish behaviour by giving a common anti-depressant to the rats, suggesting that the rats’ low energy levels post experiencing hypoglycemia may be an indicator of a low mood state.
Although skipping or delaying meals from time to time may not have long-term effects, researchers believe that continually missing meals can have lasting effects on mood and stress levels. This indicates that our diet can have a significant impact on how we feel. Making sure that we’re eating meals on time as well as having nutritious food can bring us a step closer to optimizing our mental as well as physical well-being.
Sources:
“Link between hunger and mood explained” (2018). Retrieved from www.sciencedaily.com.